A Dictionary of Popes

J. N. D. Kelly and Michael Walsh

Description

This fascinating dictionary gives concise accounts of every officially recognized pope in history, from St Peter to Pope Benedict XVI, as well as all of their irregularly elected rivals, the so-called antipopes. Each pope and antipope's entry covers his family and social background and pre-papal career as well as his activities in office. Also, an appendix provides a detailed discussion and analysis of many topics including the theory that there has been a female pope. This new edition reflects the very latest in papal research and contains additional information in the further reading sections of each entry, making the book an even more useful starting place for research into specific pontiffs. Moreover, the entries are arranged chronologically, creating a continuous history of the papacy over almost 2,000 years. It reveals how, for much of that history, spiritual and temporal power has been inextricably mingled in the person of the pope. A fascinating read for students of theology and history, as well as the general reader with an interest in Christian history.

A Dictionary of Popes

J. N. D. Kelly and Michael Walsh

From Our Blog

After eight years, Pope Benedict announced on Monday 11 February that he would step down as pontiff within two weeks. While abdication is not unheard of, it is the first papal resignation in almost 600 years. A Dictionary of Popes gives an overview of those who gave up the Papacy before him. Full entries can be found on Oxford Reference.